We’re not quite at crisis level at the moment, but Newcastle United are teetering on the brink.
Losing two full-backs and basically their left-back as well as chief left-back cover in the space of one week has been a chastening blow to say the least.
I mean, it hurt, but ultimately has mattered little, with the squad managing to record two wins - one in the Champions League and one in the Premier League - both to nil before the international break.
It also hasn’t mattered all that much that £55m striker Yoane Wissa has been forced to sit out every game since signing with a knee issue, such has been the form of record signing Nick Woltemade.
But what happens when they all return fit? What happens with Woltemade when Wissa is back and ready to play? Does Dan Burn have a problem when either of Tino Livramento or Lewis Hall come back into contention, or potentially even both? And does the previously impenetrable midfield become a selection dilemma with a fully fit Jacob Ramsey on the scene? We take a look at the strongest XI - and this is our selection.
5. Lewis Hall - Left-back
So we all know Burn isn't the answer, but Lewis Hall definitely is. A top, top player, and when fit, walks straight back in, for me. | Getty Images
6. Sandro Tonali - Central midfield
Covers every blade of grass, and then some. Newcastle need to get a crack on sorting a new contract, because they'll lose him before they know it. World level player. | AFP via Getty Images
7. Bruno Guimaraes - Central midfield
Like Tonali, not sure this one really needs much explanation at all. He's the skipper, team's leader and main creative force. he's in. | Getty Images
8. Jacob Ramsey - Central midfield
I can see this one being a touch controversial, given how well-loved Joelinton is, but I do feel a fully firing Ramsey can take the midfield up a level, particularly in games like the one on Sunday. | Getty Images